Hidden in the tranquil countryside of Lanesborough, Co. Longford, Lough Ree Distillery entered Ireland’s gin scene with an energetic launch of its Sling Shot gin at the Taste of Lakelands Food Festival.

Sling Shot Gin is being distilled in a custom-built distillery in Lanesborough while construction of the state-of-the-art Lough Ree Distillery and visitor centre is under way, 50 metres away, ahead of its official opening in mid-2019.

Global spirits expert Julia Nourney worked with Lough Ree Distillery to perfect the recipe for Sling Shot gin. Sling Shot marries classic gin botanicals with local peat along with a hint of citrus and fresh mint. Sling Shot is the first ever gin to distil peat as a botanical, making it unique amongst competitors in the Irish market. By using peat as a botanical, it adds depth and complexity to the gin giving it full bodied flavour.

A glittering gathering of guests from the world of spirits, media, business and the local community gathered at the Taste of Lakelands Food Festival, Co. Longford for the official launch of the new gin.

The local community came out in force to join Peter and Michael Clancy, Sheila Mullen and their team to mark the occasion. The host for the evening was Joe Flaherty, with the world renowned uileann piper, Noel Carberry & friends providing the musical accompaniment.

The gin & tonics served at the event showcased how Sling Shot gin can be paired with a range of garnishes and tonic waters. Its versatility as a gin is its unique selling point. Following the sparkling drinks reception, guests sampled a selection of canapes taking inspiration from the classic botanical notes and ingredients in the Sling Shot gin.

Speaking at the special event to mark the occasion, a very proud Peter Clancy, CEO of Lough Ree Distillery, said: “This is landmark moment for Lough Ree Distillery and a fitting way to celebrate the occasion. We’re overjoyed at the positive response we’ve received from the local community and we’re excited for our distillery and visitors centre to become an integral part of the Hidden Heartlands tourism offering next year.

“Sling Shot gin is the first in a long line of spirits that we will be developing over the coming years. The gin market in Ireland and across Europe is growing exponentially and we’re excited to be part of that growth. We look forward to the future and hope that everyone loves our Sling Shot gin as much as we do”.

The gin is the first in a line of planned Lough Ree Distillery spirits that will include whiskey, vodka, liqueurs, poitín, and fruit spirits.